Question

Identify and explain the three assumptions associated with Spiral of Silence Theory.

Identify and define the two ways in which people receive information about public opinion.

Answer 1

The three assumptions associated with the spiral of silence theory are:-

1. Everybody has a sixth sense which allows them to know what the public opinion is which means that people have the idea what the public or the group will think or decide against certain opinions or activities.

2. Individuals have fear of isolation from a group of people which basically implies that people are scared to be isolated due to the reason that their opinions vary from those of the group.

3. People have fear of reprisal or vengeance which essentially means that people who have conflicting views from the other people in the group tend to have a fear regarding criticism, reprisal or vengeance of the other group members due to the nature of their non-conformity.

Two ways in which people receive information about public opinion are:-

1. Study of the media: which means that since the public opinions are formed with the influence o media, studying this media will allow us to the knowledge of what forms the public opinions.

2. Public opinion data such as surveys and poll allow us I sight into the public opinion ions and allow us to. Measure it at the same time.